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Sunderland launch Sessegnon appeal

Sunderland have appealed against Stephane Sessegnon's red card in their defeat at Aston Villa.

The 28-year-old was dismissed for a challenge on Villa midfielder Yacouba Sylla midway through the second half of the crucial relegation clash, which Paul Lambert's side went on to win 6-1.

Sessegnon now faces a three-match ban which would keep him out for the rest of Sunderland's relegation run-in, however the club have opted to appeal on the grounds that the Benin international's dismissal was unfair.

Speaking after the game, manager Paolo Di Canio confirmed their intention to attempt to have the decision overturned.

"There was not a straight leg...it is not a bad challenge," he told the club's official website.

"We saw the clip straight away in the dressing room. There was no intention to damage the opponent, so we are going to appeal."